The City of Burien is exploring new zoning for the area north of the Northeast Redevelopment Area (NERA) — generally between South 128th Street and South 138th Street, west of Des Moines Memorial Drive.
This effort follows direction from the Burien 2044 Comprehensive Plan, which designates this area for future employment uses rather than additional residential density. At this early stage, the City is gathering feedback from residents, property owners, and businesses to help inform what those zoning options should look like.
What This Project Is Exploring
The purpose of this project is to explore potential zoning approaches to support new job opportunities while recognizing the existing mix of homes, businesses, and natural features in the area.
Some of the questions the City is evaluating include:
- What types of small-scale employment uses could be appropriate in the area?
- Whether certain housing types connected to employment, such as live/work spaces, could be allowed?
- How zoning rules can help ensure compatibility between existing homes and future potential businesses?
- What development standards or buffers may be appropriate as the area evolves over time?
The goal is to develop zoning options that reflect community input, long-term planning goals, and the realities of the area today.
What Types of Businesses Could Be Allowed?
One focus of the project is supporting smaller-scale businesses and employment opportunities.
Examples of uses that may be explored include:
- Artisan and creative businesses
- Small manufacturing or maker spaces
- Food and beverage production
- Office or startup work spaces
- Businesses that support residential services
The City is not exploring large-scale industrial uses such as major warehouse facilities or heavy manufacturing in this area.
What About Existing Homes?
The project does not require the removal of or changes to the existing homes. Residents would continue to be able to live in and maintain their homes under current regulations.
As zoning options are developed, the City is also evaluating ways existing residential properties could expand, including options such as:
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
- Expansions or improvements to existing homes
Future zoning options will also consider how different uses transition within the area and near existing residential properties.
What About the Environment?
Any zoning approach developed through this project would continue to apply the City’s existing regulations for:
- Critical areas and environmental protections
- Stormwater management
- Tree retention and minimum plantings
- Noise and lighting standards
Project Timeline
The North of NERA Rezone project began in 2025 and will continue through 2026.
Major steps in the process include:
- Community engagement and early feedback
- Development of zoning alternatives
- Planning Commission review and recommendation
- City Council consideration of a final proposal
Share Your Input
Community feedback will play an important role in shaping the zoning options considered for the area.
The survey takes about 10 minutes and asks questions about:
- Potential employment uses
- Housing options connected to employment
- Compatibility measures for the neighborhood
This is an anonymous survey. The results will be used to inform a preferred zoning alternative for the North of NERA Rezone Project. For more information and opportunities to get involved, please visit burienwa.gov/nnz.
